Some bully sticks smell worse than other, I've heard that Red Barn smells the worse, and the dog doesn't even have to be chewing on it and it will fill the whole room with "fragrance". I've heard some brands don't have ANY odor, but others have said, yes they do, so I don't know why some people say no and others say yes for the same brand.
I think Merrick brand has a mild odor, but it's worth it to me, because I know the hard sticks are so good for the teeth and gums.
I preferred the kind that's made in the US, I do think they have stricter regulations, and also I don't want any artificial preservatives or expiration dates. Free range doesn't mean anything if the beef is imported.